Warren "Ren" Darby

January 1, 2019
Warren Ronald Darby, 76, of Houghton Lake, our big-hearted, fun, and generous dad, Puppe, grandpa, brother, uncle, and friend passed away on the morning of Thursday, May 9, 2019 at Ascension – St. Mary’s. Warren was born in West Branch on May 28, 1942, the son of the late Ivan and Rheda (Smith) Darby. After his service in the U.S. Navy, he moved to Carrollton. While in the neighborhood, he happened to notice the former Helen Ann Gagnon. They eventually dated, fell in love, and were united in marriage on April 24, 1965. Ren retired from Wolverton, where he worked in sales. Throughout his life, Warren enjoyed playing cards (especially Euchre), bowling, and was an avid outdoorsman. Those who knew Warren will forever remember his love of birds (especially cardinals), the outdoors, enjoying the Autumn season, gardening, and through thick and thin, his love for the Detroit Tigers, and MSU sports. Ren leaves to carry on his legacy, his children, Shaun (Brian) Most of Carrollton, Chad (Jody) Darby of Freeland, and Drue (Kristine) Darby of Saginaw; grandchildren, Emily (Robert) Hill, Kendra Darby, Brianna Most, Katrina Most, Tori Ann Darby, Haley Jo Darby, Dana Most, along with several great-grandchildren; brothers, Richard (Margaret) Darby and Daryl Darby; brother-in-law, Hillman Evans, along with many nieces and nephews. In addition to his wife and parents, Warren was welcomed home to heaven by his sister, Marilyn Evans; father and mother-in-law, Jerome & Mary Gagnon; brother-in-law, Jerry Gagnon, and beloved cat, Meriweather. Warren’s family will be present to receive visitors on Monday, May 13, 2019 from 2:00 PM until Warren’s 7:00 PM Life Celebration at Skorupski Family Funeral Home & Cremation Services (formerly Reitz-Herzberg), 1550 Midland Rd., between State & Gratiot. Rev. Joseph Atchinson will officiate with cremation to follow. Memorial contributions may be directed to St. Jude Children’s Research Hospital or the wishes of the family. The entire family wishes to extend a heartfelt thanks to the staff of Ascension – St. Mary’s for their compassionate care. Expressions of sympathy may be shared with the family online at www.skorupskis.com.
Shaun, Chad, and Drue,
Rick and I are very sorry to hear about your loss. Your dad was a great guy. We have a lot of memories from the lake and when your parents lived in Saginaw. Please know that you are in our thoughts and prayers.
We are very sorry to hear about your dad. Our thoughts and prayers are with you and your families.
Warren was the sweatiest Man I have ever known. I and my family was blessed to have known him for the past 4 years and considered him to be a part of the family, along with his wonderful children. He will be deeply missed.
Ren was one of the best men I’ve ever met, so loving, caring, and selfless. The world got a little darker yesterday morning after losing a light so bright. Rest easy Ren, enjoy spending time with the other lost loved ones.
Uncle Warren and Aunt Helen we’re my parents Carl and Carolyn Schaper Best Friends. I remember as a child they were always playing cards and laughing. Having a wonderful time. Shaun, Chad and Drue I’m so very sorry for your loss.
My condolences to the family. Warren and I went to school together and was a neighbor growing up in Carrollton. Warren was always well liked and I’m glad I had a chance to know him. RIP my friend
So very sad to hear of Warren’s passing. I worked with him at Robert Hall Village years ago. He was a great guy to know. Always caring and considerated to everyone.
Our deepest sympathy to your family.
Our deepest condolences to the family. Although we didn’t know Warren for very long, he will be missed. We met him through our next door neighbor, Cindy and easily became friends. He was the nicest person and had such great stories. We would sit on the porch and talk for hours, and of course, drink a beer.
Sending my condolences to the Darby family. I worked in the office at Wolverton while Warren was a Sales Rep. Warren was always such a funny, kind and smiling guy. So sorry for your loss.
I grew up in Lawndale Estates and Mr. Darby was wonderful gentleman who everyone highly respected and looked up to immensely. I send my loving thoughts, prayers, sympathy and condolences to his family and friends.